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Day of service, remembrance at Saratoga Springs library honors Martin Luther King Jr.

The life of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. will be commemorated as a Day of Community Service and Remembrance at the Saratoga Springs Public Library on Monday, Jan. 20. People of all ages are encouraged to participate.

This year’s theme, “Who is Martin Luther King Jr. and why is it important to remember him?” will be explored beginning at 2 p.m. during an afternoon program of theatrical performances by SHYFT (formerly Saratoga Performing Youth Artists) under the artistic direction of Lezlie Dana, along with live music, audio clips of Dr. King and discussion.

Food donations

The library is also a site for donating canned or non-perishable and non-expired food items during regular library hours or on Martin Luther King Day between 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Those who want to volunteer on Monday should come to the Saratoga Springs library at 9:30 a.m. to register for a service or community art project from 10 a.m.-noon.

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Various projects, lunch

Projects include cleaning, stocking, painting, repairing, sewing and making paper beads. There are a variety of projects, some appropriate for all ages, including younger children. Volunteers will be rewarded with a free lunch in the library’s Community Room at 12:30 p.m. thanks to donations from local businesses and the Saratoga chapter of the League of Women Voters.

This year’s program is being sponsored by the Saratoga Springs Public Library, Temple Sinai, Saratoga Peace Alliance, Saratoga Friends-The Quakers, The League of Women Voters, Saratogians for Gun Safety, The Frederick Allen Elks Club and the PNECC.

King would have turned 85 on Jan. 15.

“Because Dr. King continues to be a role model and source of inspiration for those who care about social justice, we want to remember and honor his life and legacy in a meaningful way,” said a press release from organizers.

“We planned the day so everyone could find a way to participate,” added Deirdre Ladd, one of the organizers. “People can donate food to the food pantry, volunteer for a couple of hours in the morning at a local non-profit or on site at the library, or attend the afternoon program which will include music, student performances and audio-visual clips of Dr. King.”